The Black Stars are set for a stern challenge as they take on the Black Sable Antelopes of Angola in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

The game is scheduled for today at 16:00 GMT at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.

The team, under the guidance of coach Otto Addo, has been preparing intensively over the past three days.

This match marks the beginning of their quest to end a 42-year wait for African glory. Ghana’s recent form has been promising, with victories over Mali and the Central African Republic in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.

The Black Stars aim to continue this momentum and maintain their unbeaten streak.

Head-to-Head Record

Ghana and Angola have clashed eight times in all competitions, with Ghana holding the upper hand.

The Black Stars have won four of these encounters, drawn three, and lost only once. The sole defeat dates back to 1997, when Angola secured a 1-0 victory.

However, Ghana has generally been dominant, including a notable win over host Angola in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals, thanks to a goal from Asamoah Gyan.

Team News

Coach Otto Addo will have a fully fit squad to choose from, including key players such as Arsenal's Thomas Partey, West Ham's Mohammed Kudus, Leicester City's Jordan Ayew, and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku.

Mohammed Salisu, Tariq Lamptey, and Antoine Semenyo are also available. Inaki Williams has returned to the squad after a period of injury, providing a boost to the team.

However, Ghana will be without several players due to injuries, including Alexander Djiku, Gideon Mensah, Abdul Salis Samed, Ernest Nuamah, Daniel Kofi Kyere, Kamal Deen Sulemana, and Ibrahim Sulemana.

Angola's Squad

Angola's team includes several players from top European leagues. Zito Luvumbo plays in Serie A for Cagliari, Depu features in the Portuguese league, and Manuel Benson plays in the English Championship for Burnley.

Other notable players include Randy Nteca from La Liga’s Rayo Vallecano and Clinton Mata from Lyon. This roster highlights the caliber of the opposition Ghana will face.

Coach Otto Addo has acknowledged the quality of Angola's squad and emphasized the need for a strong performance from his team.

The Black Stars are keen to set a strong pace in Group F and send a clear message to their rivals following Sudan's opening-day win over Niger.

The match promises to be an exciting and crucial start to Ghana's AFCON qualifying campaign.